The Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF) is seeking entries for its new Making a Difference recognition awards, introduced as part of its Year of the Insurance Professional initiative.

ANZIIF is offering competitions, free online access to its journal and a selection of webinars this year to “shine light on the industry’s unsung heroes”.

“Defining what it means to be an insurance professional and working collaboratively is fundamental to ensuring a sustainable future for our industry,” ANZIIF CEO Prue Willsford said.

Underwriting, reinsurance and life sector entries for the new awards, which highlight individuals who have demonstrated exceptional professionalism, are open until May 7 here.

Entries for broking, general insurance and claims will open on August 17.

Applicants must submit a short, compelling video entry that "convinces the judging panel that you or the nominated individual made the best difference,” ANZIIF says. Winners will receive an ANZIIF Skills Unit, registration to a 2021 event and a one-year membership, as well as being recognised with a feature profile on the ANZIIF website.

ANZIIF GM Industry Engagement Damian Falkingham called on members to help celebrate the success of insurance professionals by taking part and helping to showcase opportunities for those looking for a career in insurance.

“This initiative is about bringing the industry together to recognise professionalism and celebrating achievements,” he said. “This can be a key driver for industry collaboration following a challenging 2020 due to the [catastrophe] season and COVID impacts.”